Council District 7
Update 11/5: Joseph Hale has won this election
Candidates in the race are: Heather Hadi / Joseph Hale
League of Women Voters Candidate Forum
Other Districts:
District 1 / District 2 / District 3 / District 4 / District 5 / District 6 /
District 8 / District 9 / District 10 / District 11 / District 12
Heather Hadi
Heather Hadi is an immigration attorney specializing in family law, immigration, and asylum. She attended the University of Kentucky for a Bachelors in Communications. This is her first time running for office.
Campaign Finances*:
*Note that the first filing deadline for general election campaign finances is September 10th.
LexVote Questionnaire - Heather Hadi did not return the General Election questionnaire, below are her responses from the Primary Election in May.
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I am an attorney that specializes in immigration and family law. I was born and raised in Lexington. I graduated from Paul Lawrence Dunbar in 2006, went on to the University of Kentucky to graduate with my bachelor’s in communication in 2010 and then raced on to law school. I graduated with my Juris Doctorate in 2013 and immediately opened my own law firm. My firm is a small business that caters to the underserved and vulnerable populations when they are in need of legal assistance. Most importantly, I am a mother with two high energy young kiddos ages 4 and 8 that both attend school in Lexington. As a professional and a working mother, I have a unique, nonpartisan and multifaceted insight into the issues facing our community.
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As with many other cities, affordable housing and transportation are some of the most pressing issues facing our district. If elected, I will listen to our community in order to create a concise and effective solutions based on reasonable steps that can be completed sooner rather than later. Cost effective solutions that help with infill and restoration while also acknowledging our need for expansion and growth. Growth is the catalyst for change and we must be willing to grow in a responsible, smart way while maintaining the beauty and culture of our wonderful city. Fighting against change and growth would be a vital mistake.
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We need to focus on accessible and inclusive participation from our community and some ways to foster that would be with user friendly websites, community outreach programs that would include community liaisons that communicate with city council, civic education programs that are fun and informative, meeting times that are flexible and reasonable for the working individual to participate in amongst many other innovative solutions.
Joseph Hale - Winner
Joseph Hale is a Resource Management Analyst for the Commonwealth of Kentucky. He ran for this seat in 2022, losing in the general election to Councilmember Worley.
Campaign Finances*:
*Note that the first filing deadline for general election campaign finances is September 10th.
LexVote Questionnaire:
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Having diligently served within the corridors of state government since 2017, fulfilling the critical role of IT Coordinator for the Kentucky Department for Public Health Emergency Response and Preparedness Branch, I bring a depth of administrative acumen to the forefront of governance. Concurrently, my steadfast commitment to spiritual leadership over the past 19 years, currently as a Pastor at The Gate Church Lexington, offers a unique vantage point into the fabric of our community. My tenure on the board of directors further underscores my dedication to enhancing the welfare of our constituents. The amalgamation of my extensive governmental experience at both state and local levels, fortified by over 18 years of honed leadership skills and training, positions me as a formidable candidate poised to navigate the intricacies of public service with adeptness and foresight.
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At the forefront of my district's concerns, as well as those of Lexington at large, lies the imperative of bolstering Public Safety and ensuring equitable access to affordable housing. These twin pillars are not merely issues; they represent the very bedrock upon which the prosperity and well-being of our community stand. As a council member, I will be steadfast in my commitment to addressing these paramount challenges head-on, leveraging strategic partnerships and innovative policies to forge a safer, more inclusive future for all Lexingtonians especially District 7.
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Engaging our residents in the vital workings of local government necessitates a concerted effort to communicate unequivocally that their voices are not only valued but indispensable to our collective progress. Leveraging targeted marketing campaigns to foster a sense of inclusivity, coupled with strategic incentives aimed at incentivizing participation, serves as a potent catalyst in galvanizing civic engagement. Moreover, in the digital age, the creation of accessible virtual platforms serves as a linchpin in democratizing the discourse, ensuring that every Lexingtonian has a seat at the table, regardless of physical barriers or constraints.
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My vision for Lexington is to see it rise to be among the top ten best places to live in the United States. Achieving this vision requires a multifaceted approach. We must address the pressing issue of affordable housing, which affects many communities across our nation. We need to enhance public safety to ensure that every resident feels secure in their home and neighborhood. Improving public transportation through the extension of bus routes will make our city more accessible and connected. Additionally, investing in infrastructure—such as upgrading roads and expanding bike lanes—will support both convenience and sustainability. Beautifying our public parks and walking trails will enhance the quality of life and promote community well-being. Finally, restoring respect and reverence for our city government is crucial for fostering trust and effective governance. Together, these initiatives will build a stronger, more vibrant Lexington for all its residents.